Which of the following describes the Portfolio Diet's core foods?

• A. Plant sterols, soy products, soluble fiber, and almonds
• B. Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, Vitamin D, and potassium
• C. Red meat, dairy fat, refined grains, and sugar
• D. Dairy-only approach

Answer: (A)

The Portfolio Diet lowers LDL cholesterol by combining four specific foods: plant sterols, soy protein, soluble (viscous) fiber, and almonds. Plant sterols and stanols block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, which lowers LDL levels. Soy protein adds additional LDL reduction and can help replace some saturated fat in the diet. Soluble fiber binds cholesterol and bile acids in the gut, reducing cholesterol absorption and helping remove it from the body. Almonds contribute heart-healthy fats and fiber, supporting the lipid-lowering effect and overall heart health. When these four components are eaten together, they work synergistically to lower LDL more effectively than any single one alone.

Other choices reference nutrients or foods not central to this four-food pattern, so they don’t describe the Portfolio Diet’s approach.